Why Kamala Harris supporters believe she is the right president for the AI era

AI regulation and leadership, and the need for national action: As artificial intelligence rapidly advances, regulating this powerful technology has become a critical challenge that requires decisive leadership at the national level.

• California Governor Gavin Newsom’s recent decision to halt legislation mandating safety testing for certain AI models highlights the limitations of state-level regulation in addressing this complex issue.
• The growing impact of AI on various aspects of society necessitates a coordinated national effort to govern its development and deployment effectively.

Kamala Harris’ approach to AI governance: according to her supporters, Vice President Kamala Harris has demonstrated a thoughtful and pragmatic approach to addressing the challenges posed by artificial intelligence, focusing on the real-world implications for everyday Americans.

• As a presidential candidate, Harris brings a unique perspective shaped by her experiences in California’s tech hub and her work as the state’s attorney general, where she established the country’s first privacy protection unit.
• Her approach to AI governance is characterized by a balance between fostering innovation and implementing necessary safeguards to protect consumers and workers.

Listening to stakeholders: Harris has shown a commitment to understanding the concerns of various groups affected by AI technologies, from workers and patients to students and seniors.

• In a White House meeting with consumer advocates and labor leaders, Harris sought firsthand accounts of how AI impacts different segments of society.
• Concerns raised included AI surveillance systems in workplaces, algorithmic errors in healthcare benefits, AI-enabled scams targeting seniors, and the misuse of deepfake technology.

Translating concerns into action: The Biden-Harris administration has taken concrete steps to address the challenges posed by AI, directly responding to the issues raised by stakeholders.

• President Biden signed an executive order addressing problems with tenant screening algorithms, automated worker surveillance tools, and synthetic content like voice cloning.
• The administration has also focused on maintaining America’s AI edge over China and supporting small businesses in competing in the emerging AI market.

Harris’ vision for AI governance: The vice president has articulated a clear agenda for AI that emphasizes innovation while prioritizing privacy protection and equal access to opportunities.

• Harris has worked with tech CEOs to secure voluntary safety commitments that aim to harness AI’s potential without stifling innovation.
• She has rallied world leaders around a vision for AI that balances technological advancement with robust safeguards.

Contrasting approaches: Supporters point to the differences between Harris’ approach to AI governance and that of former President Trump’s proposed policies.

• Harris advocates for a “safe business environment” for the U.S. AI sector, building on the current administration’s efforts.
• In contrast, Trump’s platform reportedly aims to roll back safety measures and national security safeguards, potentially allowing AI industry players to self-regulate.

Broader implications: As AI continues to evolve and integrate into daily life, the next president will face significant challenges in managing its impact on society, security, and the economy.

• Harris’ track record suggests she will prioritize listening to and addressing the concerns of regular Americans while fostering responsible innovation.
• The approach taken by the next administration will have far-reaching consequences for workers, consumers, and the overall trajectory of AI development in the United States.

Looking ahead: AI governance and presidential leadership: The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence technologies underscores the critical importance of informed and proactive leadership in shaping policies that balance innovation with societal well-being.

• As the 2024 presidential election approaches, voters will need to consider how candidates’ approaches to AI governance align with their vision for America’s technological future and the protection of citizens’ interests.
• The next president’s ability to navigate the complex landscape of AI regulation and development will likely have profound implications for the country’s economic competitiveness, national security, and social fabric in the years to come.